Cape Town – Broadcaster Sizwe Dhlomo publicly ridiculed musician David Scott better known as The Kiffness , after the Cape Town-based artist said he had lost a R500,000 campaign deal following his public defence of US conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The Kiffness posted on X that he had “just lost a R500k campaign because I defended Charlie Kirk,” adding, “Worth it to be honest,” and attached what he said was a termination email from the campaign organisers.
The screenshot he shared showed the agency citing “recent social media activity” and a potential “reputational risk” to its client as the reason for ending the deal. These claims were widely reported in South African entertainment outlets after the post circulated online.
Just lost a R500k campaign because I defended Charlie Kirk. Worth it to be honest. pic.twitter.com/PTTlFwoqEG
— The Kiffness (@TheKiffness) September 15, 2025
The termination email reproduced in coverage of the row told The Kiffness that the brand could not continue an association that “may be perceived as an endorsement of views inconsistent with our values or our client’s positioning.”
That line became the focal point of debate about whether creators risk commercial opportunities when they express controversial political views.
lol! Who was dumb enough to pay you R 500 k to begin with? 😂🤣😂 https://t.co/XUxa9paeGL
— Sizwe Dhlomo (@SizweDhlomo) September 15, 2025
As reported by The South African, Dhlomo’s response sparked widespread reaction online. Some users sided with him, questioning whether the half-a-million rand figure was realistic, while others defended The Kiffness’s right to speak his mind, even if it came at a financial cost.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
